Chapter 27: Speed of Sound
Disclaimer: Harry isn't mine. Sad.
Alas.. enjoy.
'I got it.' Harry said as soon as he wandered into Dumbledore's oval office placing the small vial with the memory onto the desk. Harry was feeling pretty miserable. He couldn't help but feel as though he manipulated Slughorn to hand over the information. Before he could dwell on it for too long however, his headmaster peered up from behind his mahogany desk and gave a small nod of approval. Standing up with a grace Harry could never understand, memory in hand, he made his toward the pensive.
'Let us not waste anymore time,' he spoke softly.
'So,' Harry started, his mind jumbled with what he'd just witnessed. 'So, Voldemort has split his soul into seven different parts to make sure he's immortal?'
Dumbledore nodded slowly.
'Which is why he didn't actually die when the spell backfired.' Harry continued. 'Because there was another part of him somewhere, a part of his soul that was untouched.'
Again, Dumbledore nodded.
'Well. That's just fucking awesome isn't it?' Harry said sarcastically. 'Here, Harry. You're the chosen one. You're the only one that can kill him. But wait, you can't. Because there are parts of Voldemort's soul strewn across Britain in remote and unknown places.'
Dumbledore looked up, startled at the language expressed by his favourite pupil.
Ignoring his mentor's shocked expression, Harry marched on. 'So, there are seven pieces of his soul just randomly scattered about. And he can't be killed until all fucking seven pieces of his soul are destroyed. Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.'
Clearing his throat quietly, Dumbledore spoke. 'There are five remaining horcruxes.' He said. 'The diary – you destroyed that in your second year, with the Basilisk fang.' Here, he opened a draw and pulled out the tattered old diary.
'What was the other one?' Harry asked curiously.
Dumbledore pulled out a ring. 'A family heirloom.' He told Harry, 'I destroyed it this past summer.'
Harry nodded, 'how?'
'Perseverance,' was the answer that his professor provided.
'Seven?' Hermione gasped, 'and there's five left?'
Harry nodded slowly, his eyes unfocused. He thought his mind would explode with the amount of information Dumbledore had just revealed. There were five left. Five parts of Voldemort's soul that prevented the evil bastard from being defeated once and for all. The rest of their meeting continued on with Dumbledore sharing his thoughts on what the other five were. Unfortunately, it all sounded like speculation.
What was bugging Harry even more was the fact that Dumbledore hadn't offered a proper answer as to how to destroy one.
'Maybe he doesn't even know?' Hermione provided after Harry voiced his thoughts. They were lying side by side on Harry's bed facing each other. Hermione looked troubled, her brow furrowed as she processed what Harry had only just relayed to her. Harry stared at her, quietly marveling at her. 'I mean, obviously it's powerful magic. I doubt Voldemort would go to the trouble of creating a horcrux and then let it be destroyed by a simple 'reducto.''
Harry nodded in agreement. 'What are the other five though? They could be anything.'
Hermione shrugged helplessly, her hand reaching out and grabbing his softly. 'It's got to be something that means something to him. I mean, take the ring and the diary – they were both important to him in some way. I doubt the others would be any different.'
'Something important to Voldemort…' Harry muttered softly, closing his eyes tiredly while his thoughts ran wild. All the weeks and months of learning about Tom Riddle were now being rehashed. His childhood at the orphanage, his days at Hogwarts and his life after. Harry sighed, a frustrated groan escaping his lips as he fought to capture any small detail that would provide him with a clue.
A couple of seconds later he felt a familiar touch. He opened one eye to see Hermione looking at him, a tender expression on her face. Her eyes were warm and welcoming.
'We're going to figure this out, Harry.' She assured him softly, her hand caressing his face gently. She moved so she was now straddling him. Her long dark hair fell forwards and acted as a curtain. Harry reached up, and cupped her face with his hands. Leaning forwards, Hermione kissed him softly on the lips. 'I love you,' she whispered against his lips. 'I love you and we're going to figure this out together.'
The following morning, Harry sat quietly at the Gryffindor table in the Great Hall. It was early in the morning and there were only a few other students' at their respective house tables. Hermione sat next to him, absorbed in some massive textbook.
'I think that book weighs more than you.' Harry whispered to Hermione, as he took in the enormity of the tomb in front of her.
Hermione smiled and elbowed him softly in the stomach. 'Oh hush.'
As Harry was about to respond, a shadow fell over the duo. Looking up, Harry met a pair of silver eyes.
'Hey,' Draco muttered before falling heavily onto the bench opposite them.
Looking at him Harry felt a wave of guilt crash on him. He'd been so busy with Dumbledore and the horcruxes that he'd totally neglected Draco. With the war getting more momentum every day, the young Slytherin would be suffering a great amount of pressure. There were dark circles under his eyes and his usually immaculate hair was uncombed and messy.
'What's new?' Draco asked as he began shoveling food onto his plate.
'The usual.' Harry shrugged as he passed over some toast, 'trying to find a way to defeat the darkest wizard of all time. It's actually pretty tricky… and by tricky I mean pretty freaking impossible.'
Draco allowed a brief smile to flit across his face, 'ahhh, the trials and tribulations of one Harry Potter. Remind me please, why does anyone want to be you?'
'Are you kidding? Who wouldn't want a Dark Lord as their nemesis? It's so much fun. The nightmares, the duels. Not the mention people love having the weight of the world on their shoulders.' Harry rolled his eyes. 'I'm actually a little bit jealous of myself… and admit it Draco, there's a lil part of you that is as well,' he smiled.
'Ah, you read me like a book. I'm so embarrassed that I'm that transparent.' Draco laughed, before turning his attention to Hermione who had been observing their banter with a small smile. 'Morning Granger.'
'Hey Draco.' Hermione grinned as she put her textbook away in her bag. 'How are you?'
Here, Draco shrugged. 'I'm fine, I suppose. Things could be worse.' He briefly looked over at Harry who was busy cutting some bacon. As much as they joked about everything, it was obvious that beneath the surface, Draco held a lot of respect for Harry and vice versa. Hermione didn't miss the look and her smile turned sad.
'Any news?' Hermione asked quietly. With numbers increasing on the Death Eaters side, it was becoming more and more difficult for Snape to protect Draco from their clutches.
Draco shrugged, a sadness coming into his eyes. He looked much older than 16. 'Snape's doing all he can I spose. But it doesn't stop father from sending mail every other day talking about the honour that would be bestowed upon the Malfoy name by becoming a Death Eater.' He shook his head. 'It's only a matter of time before every excuse is used.' He looked helpless. 'Then what? I'll become one of them. It's in my blood.'
'Then you'll join the Order,' Harry said firmly, 'because you're a good person. You're annoying and sometimes obnoxious, yes… but you're not a murderer. Fuck honour. You're not your father, and that's a good thing Draco. Don't let your name define you. Don't let your family dictate what path you choose. It's your life and your decision. No one else's. They want you to become one? Say no. Fight for what you believe, not because it's easy but because it's what's right. And we'll fight with you.'
Draco raised a blonde eyebrow. 'You sound like Dumbledore.' He said lightheartedly as a spark of something entered his eyes. 'But, turning my back on it means turning my back on my family. My mother,' Draco struggled, 'She's trapped in that world but she's not like them. I swear she isn't. What kind of son would abandon their mother when they needed them most?'
Hermione reached over the table and grasped his hand. Shocked at the unexpected physical contact, Draco looked like he was about to withdraw his hand, but instead he looked back just as intently, gripping hers tightly.
'Your mother would want you to be safe.' She said quietly. 'She would want you to be happy and to be free of the darkness that has enveloped her life and her family's life for so long.' She squeezed his hand softly. 'She wouldn't want her only son to be trapped in a world that she herself wants to escape.'
Draco swallowed hard. He let out a small cough in an attempt to reclaim some composure. 'You Gryffindor's are a sentimental bunch aren't you?' He said lamely.
Harry smiled. 'You're going to be okay Draco.' He said seriously. 'You need to believe that.'
'Of course I will be.' Draco nodded as his trademark smirk slid back into place. 'I have the boy-who-lived on my side.'
'You ready?' Harry asked, twirling his wand around casually.
Hermione nodded determined. 'I'm ready.'
The two were in the room of requirement practicing duelling upon Hermione's request. She knew that theoretically she was sound, but when it came to actually fighting, she lacked the necessary confidence.
'Don't go easy on me.' Hermione warned as she tightened her ponytail. 'I'm not going to get any better if you let me win.'
Harry nodded back, agreeing wholeheartedly. The more training Hermione had, the better off she'd be in battle.
'One the count of three.' Harry started. 'One. Two. Three.'
Hermione raised her wand immediately, a flash of red light hurtling towards Harry. Easily deflecting it with a flick of his wand, Harry began talking. 'Come on Hermione, you can do better than that.' He waved his wand lazily again as another spell was fired his way. 'You're being predictable.' Another spell was deflected. He fired a spell at Hermione which was stopped at the last second. 'You're fighting for your life Hermione. Act like it.' Harry spoke, firing a flurry of curses towards her, with one actually hitting her.
'Ow fuck.' Hermione, clutching her wrist as her wand cluttered to the ground. Before Harry had a chance to see if she was ok, she'd picked up the wand and began attacking again. Nodding with a small smile, Harry continued to bait her. 'Right now, I'm not Harry. I'm a Death Eater.' He said as he deflected a wave of spells. 'I've just killed and tortured a young child before your eyes and you want to make me suffer.' Another wave of curses reined down on him and he was now forced to work a little bit harder to stop it. Beads of sweat were running down Hermione's face. Her eyes were hard and focussed, her attack was relentless. 'Come on Hermione.' Harry continued, his own beads of sweat beginning to run down his neck. 'Hurt me like i've hurt you.' Another flurry came at him that he worked to avoid before he started to attack again. She lasted longer than last time but Harry was still able to disarm her easily.
'Again.' Hermione demanded. Her eyes were glittering with determination. They'd been at this for hours. Her black singlet clung to her body, sweat glistening on her skin. Her face was red and hot but still, she pushed through.
'Are you sure you don't want a break?' Harry offered only to receive a glare in response. 'Or not.'
'You don't get to take a break in a war.' Hermione whispered as she fired spells furiously. 'There's no drinks break or dinner time.' She continued, her wand waving frantically.
Harry nodded as he deflected a new onslaught. 'You're right.' He returned fire. 'You're alive in this moment and the next you won't be. You blink and you die.' He ducked a well aimed spell that just missed his head. Before he had enough time to regain the correct stance, a bright red light came out of nowhere smashing forcefully into his stomach. Harry was propelled into the air before landing heavily on his back.
'Shit Hermione.' Harry gasped as rolled onto his back and breathed in a deep breath that hurt. 'I think you broke a rib.'
Hermione came rushing over, a startled expression on her face. 'I didn't mean too!' She said frantically. 'Why didn't you deflect it?' She accused. 'You weren't supposed to let me win!'
Stifling a laugh, Harry touched his stomach tenderly. 'I would've deflected it if i could've. You beat me fair and square that time.' He watched as Hermione replaced his hands with her own. She pulled his shirt up and gave a small gasp. Looking down, Harry could see why. The right side of his stomach was already blue/purple from where the spell had hit.
'Oh my goodness.' Hermione looked ready to burst into tears. 'Harry, i'm SO sorry.' She laid her hand on his stomach gently.
Harry shook his head. 'Are you kidding? This is awesome. You did great.' He smiled at the baffled look on his girlfriends face. 'Honest Hermione, I'm ok. it looks worse than it is.
'You're such a bad liar.' Hermione shook her head he tried to get up but couldn't. 'Come on, I'm taking you to the hospital wing.'
To say that Madam Pomfrey was shocked to see them would be an understatement.
'What in the name of Merlin happened,' she demanded as she inspected Harry's abdomen.
Harry smirked at Hermione who stood impatiently by the curtain for the cubicle. She looked so worried and guilty. 'You mean this isn't normal?' Harry feigned shock. He shot an accusing glare towards his girlfriend. 'Hermione you said it was normal for people to curse their boyfriends!'
'Oh shutup!' Hermione rolled her eyes as she came to have a closer look. She stood by the side of the bed, and gripped Harry's hand in her own before addressing the nurse. 'We were practicing duelling.' She said and flinched when she looked down at the wound she herself had inflicted upon her boyfriend.
'Of course you were.' Madam Pomfrey mumbled under her breath.
Harry smiled, relief sweeping through him as the nurse muttered the welcome incarnation that healed his ribs.
'The bruise will last for a few days.' She informed them, 'but the break has been repaired.' She stepped back as Harry hopped nimbly from the bed.
'Thanks Madam Pomfrey.' Harry grinned as he made his way to the door. 'You're a lifesaver.' Just as they reached the entrance to the infirmary, they heard her call out one last thing.
'I'd hate to be the Death Eater that meets the end of your wand Miss. Granger.'
Chapter 28: Up in Flames
A/N: I do not own Harry Potter :(
Breakfast time at the Great Hall used to be Harry's favourite time of the day. He thought he would never get sick of seeing the hundreds of owl's swoop down and deliver their mail. Recently things had changed, instead of looking forward to it, he was daunted by it. More and more people were being delivered little black envelopes. They were from the ministry. And they were not things people wanted to receive. Families were dying and this was how the students were contacted.
'It makes me feel sick to.' Hermione said from next to him, her voice soft. Harry turned to her. 'Never knowing and always wondering if you're going to be next. It's horrible.' She squeezed his hand softly.
Ron nodded, from the opposite side of the table. 'I know. You can't help but think this time it'll be someone you know.'
Harry remained quiet, a sick feeling embedding itself in his stomach. He concentrated on his breakfast as the owls swarmed in. The great hall was quiet. Everyone was holding their breath, wishing that a black envelope wouldn't land in front of them.
A loud wail from the Hufflepuff table caught their attention. Harry's eyes searched the table and landed on a fourth year he hadn't seen before. In her hand she clutched a black envelope. A friend next to her put an arm around her in comfort but the look of utter distraught imprinted on Harry's mind. Professor Sprout rushed forward from the teacher's table and escorted the girl outside the hall. The hall remained deathly quiet even after the doors had closed shut behind them.
Slowly but surely, chatter began again, a sigh of relief evident throughout the room. Everyone else was glad, for at least in this instant, it wasn't them clutching a black envelope.
When the bell rang signaling afternoon classes, Harry was late, and walking alone to transfiguration. He had just skipped lunch in order to meet with the headmaster. An hour later, he emerged the oval office with no more understanding than what he had when he entered it. His mind was a mess. His scar hurt and he was tired, so tired.
He sighed in frustration as he rounded a corner. He was in such a haste he almost missed the little girl sitting in a small alcove. He stopped in his tracks as he laid eyes on her. She was young, second year by the looks of it but they way she looked out of the window you'd swear she was years older. Her eyes were red and puffy, and there looked to be tears on her cheeks. Lost in a world of her own, she didn't notice him until he was standing right beside her.
Her blue eyes widened in surprise as she took him in, a small oh escaping her lips. She hurriedly wiped her face with her sleeve.
'I'm sorry if I startled you.' Harry said softly. He eyed the Gryffindor tie she wore and grinned. 'I'm Harry.'
The blue-eyed girl blushed, a faint tinge of red appearing on her cheeks. She opened her mouth to respond but no sound came out. Taking pity on her, Harry sat down.
'Nice spot you've got here.' He said, leaning back against the wall and looking outside. You could see Hagrid's hut – there was smoke billowing from the chimney. Not far from that you could see a cluster of students hovering around the giant. He glanced over at the girl and chuckled inwardly. She was still staring at him, a look of absolute awe on her face.
Harry turned his full attention to her. 'Don't you have class?'
The girl blushed a bright red, 'yes.'
'Why aren't you there?'
The girl shrugged, her eyes tearing up the slightest.
Harry frowned. 'What's happened? Why are you crying?'
The girl shook her head, making her long brown hair cover her face momentarily. 'It's silly,' she said sniffling. 'I'm fine.'
'You wouldn't be sitting here hiding in an alcove with tears streaming down your face if you were fine.' Harry stated simply.
The girl sighed and turned her body toward him. 'You really want to know?' She eyed him with uncertainty.
'Absolutely,' Harry nodded sincerely.
Taking a deep breath, the girl launched into her speech. 'There's this boy in my potions class. He's from Slytherin. He's horrible.' She scrunched her face up in displeasure. 'He always makes fun of me and teases me because I'm smart and muggleborn.' She wiped at her eyes as a few tears leaked out again. 'He calls me names and everything, says that I'm a 'know-it-all', I try and ignore him but he never stops. Ever.' She looked so lost and alone in that moment, Harry's heart clenched. A vivid image of eleven year old Hermione flashed in front of him.
'There's nothing wrong with being muggle-born. One of my best-friends is.' Harry said with a smile, hoping to reassure her.
'Hermione Granger.' The girl nodded, sniffling a little. 'She's your girlfriend.' She blushed at the word.
Harry laughed, the sound echoing in the empty corridor. 'Yes, she is. But she wasn't always. We were best friends since I was eleven. And she was just like you. Smart and brainy. Some might say a bit of a 'know-it-all,' he winked and the girl smiled. 'But she was also loyal, kind, and brave.' He smiled. 'She still is. And she liked me because of me, not because of some scar.' He looked at the girl. 'At the end of the day, it's those qualities that will matter. You should be proud to be muggle-born because I know she is. My mother was one too you know.' He nodded at her surprised look. 'And she was brilliant, you should ask Professor Slughorn about her. Ask him about Lily Potter and see what he says.'
The girl smiled at him, the sadness in her eyes fading. 'You use to intimidate me.' She muttered suddenly, catching him off guard.
'Use to?' Harry grinned as they both stood up.
The girl laughed. 'Not anymore.' She slung her bag over her shoulder. 'You're nice.'
'Well I'm glad you think so.' Harry smiled at her as she turned to go. 'What's your name by the way?' He called after.
She turned around a smiled, her blue eyes twinkling. 'Lily.' She called back. 'My name is Lily.'
'Come on Ronnikins. Show us what you got.' Draco teased as they circled each other. They were in the room of requirement for a DA meeting. Harry, Lupin and Tonks circulated the room as they watched pairs duel against each other. Harry stopped when he came across Ron and Draco. Ron had his eyes glued on his opponent, his blue eyes steely as they judged his every move. The blonde was more relaxed, his silver eyes amused as he toyed with the Gryffindor.
'I guess being best friends with Harry Potter means you don't actually have to do much work.' Draco teased as he shot a well aimed spell that was deflected at the last moment. 'You just go along for the ride ey? Sit and get comfy while let Potter and Granger do all the hard yards.'
'What would you know about hard work Malfoy?' Ron shot back, his ears reddening. 'You had a freaking house elf your entire childhood.' He shot a spell of his own that didn't make it past Draco's shield.
'It's getting a bit personal don't you think.' Hermione murmured as she snuck up next to him. 'Ron looks like his head's about to explode.'
'Ron's head looks like it's going to explode when we've run out of bacon at breakfast time.' Harry said dryly, making her laugh. He winked at her before turning his attention back to the duel. Spells fired back and forth at great speed. The intensity of the duel had caught the attention of the entire room, with everyone stopping what they were doing to watch. They continued to taunt each other, small jabs here and there but neither of them was able to break through the others defenses.
'Who do you think's going to win?' Hermione whispered.
Harry shrugged, 'whoever has the best stamina.'
'I am the greatest person in the world.' Ron gloated the entire way back to the tower. 'Did you see his face? Ha!'
'I didn't think it was possible to see every single tooth in a persons mouth by their smile.' Harry muttered. 'You proved that wrong, Ronnikins.' He patted him on the back. 'You did well mate.'
'I did well?' Ron scoffed. 'I was brilliant!'
Hermione rolled her eyes. 'Don't get too cocky Ron. I bet Draco will be even more fired up to beat you next time.' She smiled at Harry as they swing their arms between them as they walked.
Ron grinned as he flung an arm across her shoulder. 'Bring it on I say. Bring it on.'
They chattered and bantered the entire way back to the common room, their spirits high.
When they entered through the portrait though, Harry immediately knew something was wrong.
Professor McGonagall stood solemnly next to the fireplace. She looked to Ron first, the red-head paling considerably as he met the gaze of his head of house.
'There's been an attack.' She answered their unspoken question. 'There's been an attack on the Burrow.'
Chapter 29: Brothers and Sisters
I don't own Harry Potter.
Also, a quick thank you to all those who have reviewed. you're all equalling amazing and i really enjoy getting any feedback :) Enjoy.
The walk to the headmaster's office was slow and torturous. Professor McGonagall led the way, her long robes sweeping against the stone floor. Ron was stoic, his face void of all emotion.
Their professor had not expressed many details, had merely said that Ron's family home had been attacked and had been unwilling to divulge any other information.
The sound of their footsteps echoed eerily throughout the corridor. Without a word Hermione gripped Ron's hand tightly in hers and gave a comforting squeeze. Blinking his blue eyes as though breaking from his daze, he gave a small squeeze back silently thanking her.
Harry trailed behind slowly, his thoughts swirling in his mind. McGonagall's silence worried him and he couldn't even imagine what Ron was feeling. Had someone been injured? Taken? Killed? The burrow had been extremely well protected, with numerous wards in place to stop any unwanted visitors.
He was still mulling over his thoughts when they came to a stop outside Dumbledore's office. As they entered the office, Harry barely had time to blink before a flash of red hair rushed toward them, engulfing her youngest son in a bone crushing hug, her shoulders racking with sobs as she clung on.
'What's happened?' Ron asked worriedly as he peered over his mother's shoulder.
The room was silent but for Mrs Weasley's crying. Harry looked around the office, at the familiar faces taking note of who was there and who wasn't. All the Weasley's were there, except one. He felt like someone had punched him in the stomach when he noticed who was absent. His twin sat alone, seemingly untouched by those around him.
'Where's George?' Ron asked the silent room. His voice echoed throughout the room. 'Someone tell me what the hell happened?' his voice raised slightly, desperation seeping into it.
Mr. Weasley stepped forward and placed a comforting arm around his wife's shoulder, drawing her slowly away from Ron. Harry felt his heart twist as he saw her face. Her eyes were red and puffy. Her skin was blotched with old tears as waves and waves of new ones poured down her cheeks. Her eyes held a haunted look as she gripped her husband's forearm tightly.
'The Burrow was attacked.' He said shortly. 'We weren't prepared. We were outnumbered.' His voice shook. 'George… he.' The patriarch of the family paused and gathered is composure, tears threatening to spill out. Fred looked up and met Ron's eyes for the first time they'd been in the office. His eyes shared the same haunted look as his mother's, but also had a deep and more heartbreaking lost look.
'No.' Ron shook his head. 'No, He's not dead.' Ron refused to believe it.
His father pulled him into a hug, one that Ron leant into to, tears streaming down his cheeks.
Harry felt sick, his eyes searched the room, looking anywhere but at the scene before him. He could not bare to watch his best friend break down. He felt incredibly intrusive, and stood their awkwardly, not knowing what to do. Ginny sat in an armchair, tears falling silently down her face, Hermione was kneeling down next to her, clutching her hand. Tearing his eyes away from the two witches, he met the grey eyes of his headmaster who had been sitting quietly in the corner. He held his gaze for a moment before slipping out of the room unnoticed.
He rushed throughout the castle, his heart pounding in his chest. He took out the marauder's map and muttered a dejected 'I solemnly swear I am up to no good.' His eyes searched the map frantically before he spotted the name he was after.
10 minutes later he was standing on the west side of the castle, outside what he assumed to be the Ravenclaw common room. He stood atop a spiral staircase and faced a door without neither a doorknob or a keyhole. In its place was a bronze knocker, in the shape of an eagle. 'What is as big as you are and yet does not weigh anything?'
'Of course there's a riddle.' Harry muttered, running his hands through his hair. He muttered the riddle to himself again; thanking Merlin had been placed in Gryffindor. He ranked his brain, and vaguely thought how well Hermione would've done in Ravenclaw. A candle flickered on the wall beside him and he looked down toward the ground. A brief smile flickered across his face.
'Your shadow.'
To say that the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw common room's differed would be an understatement. It was a wide circular room, a dark midnight blue carpet adorned the floor whilst the high ceilings had been painted with stars. The room had been furnished similar to theirs, tables, chairs and staircases were scattered around the room. What caught his immediate attention was a large white marble statue of what he believed to be Rowena Ravenclaw. Harry would have never really paid much attention to a statue, had it not been for the diadem that had adorned the founder of Ravenclaw house.
He was so entranced in it that it took a while before he noticed someone talking to him.
'Um, you're not allowed to be here.'
Harry turned toward the voice, and noticed the eyes of the entire common room were on him. Suddenly the reason he had come here in the first place came crashing down. 'Where's Luna?'
The fifth year prefect looked surprised, glancing nervously around at his peers. 'You have to leave. You're not permitted to be here.' He stood his ground even though he was quite a bit shorter than Harry.
Harry grit his teeth and took a calming breath he looked around the room and spotted a staircase leading to the dormitories. He walked over; ignoring the stunned looks and shouted as loud as he could. 'Luna! I need to talk to you. Luna!'
He was met with silence, his foot tapping restlessly on the floor. The prefect came up to him again. 'You have to leave or I'll be forced to fetch Professor Flitwick.'
Harry almost laughed at the thought. Almost. Instead he leaned back and shouted up the staircases again. 'LUNA!'
Finally, the blonde Ravenclaw floated down the stairs. Her wide blue eyes showed no surprise about who her visitor was. 'Hi, Harry.'
Harry offered a weak smile and took her by the hand. 'Come with me?' he asked quietly.
Luna nodded silently, catching on that something wasn't quite right. As they passed the other students, Harry looked toward the prefect who stood with his mouth agape. 'You might want to change the riddle.' Harry said as they slipped out.
'Someone's died.' Luna said as they walked down out of Ravenclaw tower. She said it so calmly and matter-of-factly that Harry was slightly taken aback. He nodded, his throat closing up.
'Who?' her voice was soft, coaxing.
Harry looked straight into her crystal blue eyes. 'George.'
Luna nodded, silently soaking up the news. No more questions were asked the entire way back to the headmaster's office offering Harry a brief reprieve.
'Are you sure it's ok for me to be here?' Luna asked as they walked towards the gargoyles. 'Wouldn't he want to be with his family?'
Harry spoke the password and only answered her queestion when they stood outside the oak door. He turned to her and offered a sad smile. 'He loves you, Luna.' He went to turn the handle, 'you are a part of his family.'
The scene they were greeted with was similar to the one Harry left. There was however, more noise as people whispered comforting words to one another. Mr and Mrs Weasley stood huddled together, Fleur was with Ginny. Fred sat next to his three elder bothers, yet Harry could sense he felt the most alone. Hermione stood with Ron, hands clutched together tightly. Luna rushed forward and Ron welcomed her open arms. Blue eyes met green and a silent 'thank you' was spoken. Harry nodded, not trusting his voice.
Instead he turned toward Mrs Weasley who had looked up at the sound of their arrival. He stepped toward her and it was all she needed to pull him into a hug. 'I'm so sorry Mrs Weasley.' He whispered as he felt her tears seep into his white shirt. Instead of answering she just squeezed and held him tightly.
The next few days passed in a haze for the trio. Ron went through his usual routines listlessly, his only comfort was when he was with Harry, Hermione and Luna. Classes continued on as normal. The world continued. Someone's life had been taken. It had been taken so unfairly and so suddenly but still, the rest of the world carried on.
The day of the funeral came quickly and Harry and Ron dressed in silence. They met Hermione and a teary-eyed Ginny in the common room and then went to meet Luna outside Dumbledore's office where they would portkey to their destination. Luna clasped Ron's hand in hers silently, and in a flash they were off.
They arrived along a coastline and stood atop a small hill. Rolling waves crashed against rock and a small beach was visible. There was a small gathering of people, the majority sporting red hair. They slowly made their way over and joined the group. Greetings and hugs were exchanged. Bone crushing hugs were given and more tears were shed. As Ron engaged in conversation with a relative Harry took a moment to look around. People stood huddled together, speaking fondly of George. Harry saw George's coffin stood alone, a photo of him on top. Harry and Hermione excused themselves and made their way over.
'It's a good photo.' Hermione commented softly, a small smile gracing her face.
Harry had to agree. It was taken at Lupin and Tonks' wedding. He had obviously just been dancing, his hair was in all sorts of trouble, but he was smiling at the camera, a broad happy smile that made you forget everything else in the world, the usual mischievous twinkle evident in his light blue eyes.
Harry glanced at Hermione and noticed a single tear leak out of her eye. He put an arm around her and drew her in close, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. 'He had his eyes on you that night.' Harry said quietly, fondly remembering watching them dance together. Hermione choked out a small laugh as more tears streamed down her cheeks.
'She was lookin' mighty fine that night if i recall correctly.' A familiar voice rang out. Harry and Hermione turned toward Fred. He had a smile on his face, though his eyes still held a great sadness. 'He was incredibly impressed with your dancing abilities.' He gave a wink.
Hermione offered a weak smile, 'I was just happy i could keep up.' She gave him a hug which he returned fiercely. Fred turned to Harry and the look he gave him was one he would never forget.
'He died fighting for what he believed in, Harry. I know he's up there with everyone else, looking down on us. On you.' He pulled him into a hug as tears leaked out of his eyes. 'And just like everyone else. He knows you're going to end this. You're going to beat this bastard.'
When it came time for the funeral to begin, they sat down next to Tonks and Lupin. It was a bittersweet goodbye. Humour in all the right places as they Weasley's chose to celebrate George's ability to make a room laugh. But the fact remained, Harry thought bitterly as Charlie spoke to the audience. His life was taken to soon. He was too young and did not deserve the fate he was given. He looked at Ron and felt the pain that his best friend was experiencing.
After the service had concluded Harry found himself sitting by himself. The ocean before him. Fred's words echoing in his mind. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was a comfort. The saltiness in the air was also strangely welcoming. He didn't know how long he'd been there until he felt her sit down next to him, her leg brushing against his. Her scent washed over him, joining the salt in the air and instantly he felt his shoulders slacken. His posture breaking. No words were spoken. Glancing down he took in everything about the girl sitting next to him. The curve of her eyebrow. The shape of her nose. The fullness of her lips. The small freckle below her left ear. Her untamed hair shone in the sunlight. Her warm whisky coloured eyes met his and she leaned over and softly kissed a stray tear that had leaked out of his eye unnoticed. She entwined their fingers together, her small hand warm and solid in his.
Chapter 30: A Hopeful Transmission
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN HP. I WISH. JUST A NOBODY HAVIN' SOME FUN. ENJOY.
'What are you doing?' Hermione demanded as she watched him put his wand away. 'We need to keep going.' she insisted, sweat dripping from her brow.
It was well into the night and they were once again in the room of requirement dueling. They had been at it for hours. Spells flashed back and forth at a rapid speed. She had improved greatly since they first begun yet still wasn't satisfied with the progress she had made.
Harry shook his head, 'you need a break, Hermione.' He looked at her flushed and pale face and frowned. 'You look like you're about to faint.'
Hermione rolled her eyes and shook her head defiantly, 'no, keep going. I don't need a break.' She straightened her back and prepared to start again.
'Hermione, you're exhausted. Don't do this to yourself.' Harry stepped toward her, his heart wrenching at the look in her eyes. She looked so tired.
'I am fine, Harry.' She took a deep calming breath. 'One more, please.'
Harry shook his head. 'No.'
Hermione looked at him, incredulous. 'No?' She put her hands on her hips in a display of defiance.
Harry nodded and with a flick of his wrist sent her wand flying towards him. 'No.' He repeated as he caught it deftly with his left hand.
'Harry, I need to practice.' Hermione said angrily, her eyes flashing slightly.
Harry ignored the glare being sent his way and walked up so he stood right in front of her. 'You need sleep, Hermione.' He told her earnestly.
The past couple of weeks after the funeral had seen a noticeable shift between the three. The mood was more solemn, the weight of the attack still lingering in their thoughts. Ron was with Luna more often than not and Hermione had taken either to the Library or the Room of Requirement. She had dark circles under her eyes and had begun to lose a lot of weight.
'I don't need sleep.' Hermione said as she stared him in the eyes. 'I need to be stronger and faster.' She snatched her wand back.
Harry sighed as he looked at her, meeting her glare head on. He shook his head. 'For goodness sakes, Hermione. Just stop it.' He took her wand back and threw it in the corner of the room.
'Hey, what the hell was that?' Hermione snapped angrily as the wand clattered to the ground.
'You need to stop. You need to breathe. You need to eat. You need to sleep.' Harry said, his green eyes flashing. 'You need to take care of yourself.' He took her face in his hands. 'You're doing too much, Hermione and I'm worried about you.' He told her.
Hermione opened her eyes that had closed at his touch. Her brown eyes were wide and weary. She shook her head again and stepped out of his reach. Walking towards where her wand had fallen, she picked it up and turned back. 'There's nothing to worry about.' She said as she pocketed the wand. She wiped her sweaty fringe away from her forehead. 'I'm fine.'
'Why are you doing this to yourself?' Harry asked as he blocked her way to the door. 'You're making yourself sick. When was the last time you had an actual meal? Or had a full nights sleep?'
'Harry. Let me go.' Hermione tried to move around her only to be blocked again. She sighed and met his eyes.
Harry shook his head. 'Answer.'
'I ate dinner with you tonight.' She muttered, 'you were there. I ate. Consumed food. Nutrients. It was delightful.' She raised an eyebrow as though challenging him to disagree.
'Hilarious, Hermione.' Harry rolled his eyes. 'A few bites of Sheppard's pie hardly counts.'
This time Hermione rolled her eyes. 'Well I ate enough to duel with you for a few hours. I'm still standing. See?' She did a sarcastic little curtsey and pushed past him. 'If you won't help me than fine, I'll find someone who will.'
Harry didn't see Hermione until breakfast the next morning, hoping in vain that she'd have come to her senses. However, as the brunette entered the Great Hall, Harry knew that wasn't the case. Hermione barely said a word to him as she took a place opposite him. She glanced up at him and with deliberate slowness began piling her plate with fresh fruit. 'Oh look at that would you?' She said as she pierced an apple with her fork. 'I'm eating.' She grinned at him. 'Happy?'
'You're a real comedian, Hermione.' Harry was overly cheerful. 'Although don't strain yourself, I don't want your wit and humour to result in any overexertion on your behalf. I imagine the rest of the Hall would find it alarming when you faint and fall off your seat.'
She rolled her eyes and ignored his comment, instead pointing to the newspaper that lay in front of him. 'Any news?'
Harry nodded absently as he buttered some toast and put in on her plate. 'Generally speaking yes, with it being a newspaper and all.'
'Look who's the comedian now.' Hermione muttered. 'Seriously though.'
Harry shrugged as he poured her a cup of juice. 'Death, war and destruction. The Usual. Ministry is struggling to maintain a sense of calm with the public – nothing new there. Although, they are trying oh so hard.'
'Why good morning my fellow classmates.' A silky voice announced. 'How are we today?'
'You're perky this morning.' Hermione remarked as Draco sat down next to her and started filling his own plate with food. She rolled her eyes as Harry placed some scrambled eggs onto her plate.
'I got nothing to complain about.' He said with a smirk. He met Harry's eyes and grinned, his silver eyes dancing.
Hermione snorted in a very unladylike fashion. 'Are you sure? I could think of a few things off the top of my head.'
'No way!' Harry exclaimed, mirth dancing in his eyes as he came to the realisation. 'You sly dog. Who?'
'Who?' Hermione looked at him as though he grew an extra head. 'What are you talking about?' She looked back and forth between the two guys.
Harry grinned. 'Draco had a good night, Hermione.' He accentuated the 'good.'
Hermione eyes widened in shock, her mouth forming a small 'Oh.' She looked at Draco who looked mightily pleased with himself. 'Well, who was it then?' She nudged his shoulder.
'Couldn't possibly say, Granger.' Draco produced his trademark smirk. He looked at all the food on her plate and changed the subject. 'Why are you eating a small feast for breakfast may I ask?
'It's just, I love food so much Draco.' Hermione smiled sweetly, 'I can't help myself. I think I might be half Weasley.' She grinned at Harry as she ate some eggs. 'Delicious.'
'And the comic is back.' Harry said sarcastically. 'I was beginning to miss her.'
Draco looked between him in confusion. 'Have I missed something?'
Before anyone could respond a small boy walked hesitantly up to Harry. 'Um, excuse me?' He blushed as three pairs of eyes flashed his way. He cleared his throat and handed Harry a note. 'This is for you.' He all but ran away.
'And here I thought I was the only one who could do that.' Draco said wistfully as he watched the boy hurry out of the hall.
'What is it?' Hermione asked as Harry unrolled the paper.
Harry sighed, 'Dumbledore wants to see me before class.' He checked his watch. 'I better go, I'll see you in defense?' He stood up and hiked his bag over his shoulder. He looked at Hermione, at her plate and finally at Draco. 'Draco, can you please make sure she eats all of that?'
'Yes, sir.' Draco gave a mock salute.
'Now you want me to be supervised?' Hermione wondered as they both ignored Draco.
Harry nodded, 'Yeah well, until you realize what you're doing is insane, then maybe I'll consider a probationary period.' He looked at her and his eyes softened. 'Eat.'
'You wanted to see me Sir?' Harry asked as he wondered into the oval office.
Dumbledore stood by one of the portraits, an unreadable expression on his old and weathered face. 'Yes, Harry. Sit.' He waited until the young wizard took his seat before beginning. 'I've been thinking of all the suggestions you came forth about the possible whereabouts of the Horcruxes.' He paused, 'and I would like to go in search of one today.'
Harry felt his breath catch in his throat. He and Hermione had come up with a few places Voldemort would hide them. 'Where?'
'His old orphanage.' Dumbledore answered. He took hold of the Gryffindor sword that was mounted on the wall and examined it. 'I've arranged to meet with the owner today.' He attached the sword to his hip as though going into battle before casting a spell that made it invisible. He checked the time. 'We best be going.' He held out his arm and looked at Harry expectantly.
'Now?' Harry said surprised as he stood up. 'What about my classes?' Even as he said it, he felt ridiculous.
Dumbledore smiled as Harry clutched his forearm. 'No time like the present, Harry.'
It was raining when they arrived. Sheets and sheets of water poured down on them as they hurried under the shelter of the porch. Harry looked at the house in front of him, warn and old. The sound of rain hitting the tin roof echoed loudly as Harry took in the dreary place.
So, this was where he grew up. Harry wondered with a slight shiver. He noticed Dumbledore watching him, blue eyes gauging his reaction.
Harry raised an eyebrow. 'Can we go inside?'
Dumbledore nodded and slowly pushed the old creaky door open. A wave of warmth and light greeted them, a stark contrast from the weather outside. The sounds of little feet pattering across the old floorboards reverberated throughout the old house. Harry stood awkwardly at the front door, uncertain of the next move. A door to the left of them opened and an elderly lady emerged. Her eyes widened in surprise at her new guests.
'May I help you?' She asked in a kindly voice. The corners of her eyes crinkled when she smiled. She looked very motherly to Harry, like an older Mrs. Weasley even. As these thoughts whirled around his head, Harry had to restrain from laughing as the lady took in Dumbledore, and although clearly curious about his attire, she decided to bypass it.
'I was wondering if I could talk to you about a previous child?' Dumbledore implored politely, his eyes gentle.
'That depends on who's asking Sir.' The woman replied with a smile of her own.
Instead of paying attention like he knew he was supposed to, Harry took more notice of his surroundings. Children's pictures adorned the walls, brightening the place up and adding a much needed sense of cheer and happiness. His eyes scanned the wall when he stopped suddenly, one catching his eye. He felt his heart tug as he admired the drawing. It was a simple picture. A child was holding hands with their mum and dad, the sun shining down on them as a dog walked ahead. Everyone in the picture had a smile on their face. It was such a simple drawing. Such a simple concept but it still left Harry floored. A memory from his own childhood flashed into his mind.
He was six and at school. His teacher had asked them to draw something that they wanted for Christmas that year. To six-year old Harry, the answer was simple. He took extra time with his picture, choosing his coloured crayons with deliberate care and was the last person to finish. When it was time for pack-up, children were asked to present their picture. Most of them had drawn dolls or games they wanted. His tubby cousin Dudley had drawn food. When the teacher asked Harry what he wanted, the small boy with large green eyes pointed to the three stick figures that were walking in the sun, 'a family.'
The voice of his headmaster dragged him from his reverie.
'Pardon, Sir?' Harry said as he tore his eyes away from the picture.
'If you'll follow me.' Dumbledore smiled.
Harry looked between the two adults and frowned. The older lady looked incredibly anxious, a crease in her brow evident. She eyed Dumbledore uncertainly before turning on her heels and walking out of the room. They followed.
'That wing is no longer in use.' The lady spoke as they wove in and out of different rooms. 'No one is allowed in this area of the building.' She took out a key and unlocked a rusted door.
'Why?' Harry wondered as he closed the door behind him.
The lady looked at him, a troubled expression on her face. 'You'll see.'
The rest of the walk went quietly. Finally, they walked through a small corridor and came up to an old wooden door. 'This is the room.' She announced before abruptly turning around and marching off in the direction they'd come.
Harry eyed the door, his fingers brushing against the old painted name that had been written.
T. M RIDDLE
Harry looked to Dumbledore before turning the handle. Harry wasn't at all surprised with what lay beyond, considering he'd seen Dumbledore's memory of coming to visit Riddle. There was bed. Wardrobe. Small window. Desk and chair. What made the room remarkable was the atmosphere that surrounded it. Every aspect of the room seemed dark and tainted. Like someone was there watching them, Harry felt the back of his hair stick up.
'Riddle, you creep.' Harry muttered as he wondered around. He watched Dumbledore take in the room after soundproofing the room, his blue eyes scanning and seemingly seeing what was invisible to Harry and every other normal person.
What he could see was a small picture that adorned the wall next to the bed. It was so old and faded that Harry could hardly make it out. There were boys though, and they were at a cliff, all smiling for the camera. Harry looked into the dark, uncaring eyes of a young Tom Riddle.
'There's a presence here.' Dumbledore spoke quietly.
Harry nodded, his throat closing up. He pocketed the photo and looked around the room again. Dumbledore was right, there was something here that wasn't natural.
An unsettling feeling embedded itself in his stomach as he knelt on his knees and looked under the bed. His heart began to race as he felt around, until finally he found was he was looking for.
'All orphans think alike.' Harry murmured aloud as he lifted up the loose floorboard. Standing up and pushing the bed aside, Harry and Dumbledore looked inside. A small shoebox was there, black and faded. Harry stared, unnerved at the striking similarities between him and a young Riddle.
'It's too simple.' Harry said as they stared in silence. The shoebox had a strange aura, it was though it was both appealing to anyone to look at what was inside whilst repelling anyone from coming near it. It kind of looked like it had a heart beat.
Dumbledore nodded in agreement, then began to wave his wand around, strange and unfamiliar words flowing from his mouth. Harry watched, eyes wide as lights flashed before him.
A wave of powerful dark energy began to rise in the room. Harry's eyes were fixated on the shoebox as it began to rattle. Dumbledore continued to chant, his words blurring together until finally the box exploded and the entire room shook. Harry was thrown backwards, and onto the sidelines. He watched in fascination at the scene unfolding in front of his eyes, a small locket lay opened on the floor.
Dumbledore stumbled as figures emerged out of nowhere. A girl. And a boy who looked remarkably like Dumbledore himself. 'You killed her.' The figure said as tears ran down his headmasters face. 'You're no better than HIM.'
'No.' Dumbledore shook his head. 'Please, no. I didn't mean to.'
Slowly, Harry could actually see a darkness enter his mentor. The walls were caving in, shouts and screams echoed around the room. The girl cried silently. Her eyes sad and haunted.
'You killed me, Albus.' She spoke, her voice accusing and angry.
'Forgive me.' Dumbledore sank to his knees, his eyes now adopting an unusual dullness. 'Please.'
Not knowing what to do, but knowing that Dumbledore was struggling to fight against the darkness that was enveloping him. Harry shouted anything that came to mind.
'IT'S NOT REAL, DUMBLEDORE. FIGHT.' Harry yelled, his voice barely loud enough to be heard over the increasing shouts of the unknown. 'YOU'RE A GOOD MAN. GOOD, SIR. YOU'RE NOT LIKE THEM. FIGHT.' Harry caught his blue eyes, which began to sparkle again. 'LOVE. FIGHT FOR LOVE.' At that, Dumbledore rose, his cloak billowing around him as he unsheathed the sword of Gryffindor. He let out a strangled yell as the blade came crashing down and then, silence.
Utter silence.
Harry rushed toward his headmaster who had crumpled in a heap on the floor. 'Sir?' Harry shook his shoulder. 'Are you ok?'
Dumbledore raised his eyes, tired and weary. 'I'm an old man, Harry.' He tried to smile.
'But you did it.' Harry grinned as he picked up the locket, now empty of all evil. 'You destroyed it, Sir.'
The old man shook his head, 'WE destroyed it, Harry. Thank you.'
After they'd transported back to Hogwarts and summoned Snape to help restore Dumbledore's health, it was lunch time. Harry's eyes scanned the Hall for Hermione but couldn't spot her. He easily spotted Ginny at the end of the table.
'Hey Gin, do you know where Hermione is?'
The young red head looked at him with wide eyes. 'Where have you been?'
'With Dumbledore, why?'
'Hermione fainted in defense.' Ginny said, 'she's ok.' She assured him, 'she's resting in the tower.'
He made record time back to the Common room and found Hermione lying on the couch, her eyes closed while Ron sat next to her.
'Where the bloody hell have you been? Ron demanded, loudly enough to alarm Hermione and wake her up. Harry glared at him as he knelt beside her.
'You ok?' He asked, all thoughts of the Horcrux and Dumbledore vanishing from his mind as he took in the girl in front of him. He brushed a stray hair from her eyes. 'Don't you dare say you're fine, Granger.' He whispered softly, earning a small chuckle.
'Madam Pomfrey gave me a potion. I'm sleepy.' She smiled at him drowsily. Harry rolled his eyes at her and clutched her hand. He looked up at Ron.
'What happened?'
Ron sighed, running a hand through his hair. 'Well, it was time to duel. She was up against Parkinson. She was absolutely owning as well by the way.' He smiled at the memory. 'Then she just got really pale and lost balance.' He frowned. 'Then hit the floor.'
Harry shook his hand, returning his attention back to Hermione. 'What am I gonna do with you?' He muttered.
'Take me to bed?' Hermione whispered.
Harry smiled, 'I would love nothing more. But I can't make it up the girls stairs.'
Hermione shook her head slightly. 'Not mine. Yours.' She let out a small yawn.
Harry glanced at Ron who was watching in amusement. 'What would our Head of House say?' Harry remarked as he scooped her up in his arms.
'I don't care.' Hermione muttered tiredly.
Harry laughed and turned to Ron, 'thanks mate, I got her.'
'Your bed is so much better than mine.' Hermione said as Harry gently set her down. She curled up, hugging his pillow tightly.
Harry laughed quietly, 'I'm pretty sure they're the same.'
'No.' Hermione poked an eye open and looked at him. 'It smells like you.' She sighed. 'I always feel safe. Come lie with me.'
Harry smiled softly, 'why not, already missed half the day anyway.' He took off his shoes and snuck in beside her. Hermione let go of the pillow and turned towards him, curling her body to fit against his perfectly.
She kissed his neck softly, breathing in. 'I'm sorry for being so stubborn.' She whispered as her eyes drooped.
'I know.' Harry murmured back, pulling her body closer to his.
Just as he was about to drift off himself, he felt a pair of lips on his. Opening his eyes he met her whiskey coloured gaze. 'I love you, Harry.' She smiled before returning to the crook of his neck. He would tell her about the Horcrux later. Rest came first.
'I love you, too.' He said. The image of Riddle's photo flashed before him only to be replaced by a child's picture. This time it was two people holding hands.
He smiled.